A Message from the Director
Recent studies highlight that fewer underrepresented minorities are pursuing careers in science, especially in higher education. To increase diversity is a major challenge we face today as scientists and educators. I decided to make this a priority for CIRES. We want to extend our knowledge and our community to include more of the diverse ethnic groups that make up society and obtain a better gender balance. I need your help to pursue this goal!
Few organizations are as well-equipped to meet this challenge as CIRES. We have superb scientists and support staff coupled with an exceptionally strong education and outreach unit. Many CIRES researchers have worked with schools and community groups, giving us a rich pool of experience. However, we lack a coherent, focused effort to make a considerable impact on the goals of inclusion and diversity. I want us to change that.
I have established a diversity initiative headed by Dr. Eduardo Araujo-Pradere of the Space Weather Prediction Center along with my Executive Assistant Yvonne Garcia and Associate Director for Administration Jon Rush. They will work with CIRES Education and Outreach and our Communications Group and, most importantly, with all of you, to help identify opportunities for CIRES to make a difference. In the months ahead we will actively seek to increase our involvement in this vital work. I am confident the effort will enrich our science and enhance our mission.
Konrad Steffen
Director of CIRES
